Elkanah(4)
Elkanah in the Bible — father of Amasai and Ahimoth (1CH 6:25) and son of Joel (1CH 6:36). Elkanah belonged to the tribe of Levi. Referenced in 2 scripture passages.
Name meaning: “God the zealous; the zeal of God”
Profile
- Gender
- male
- Tribe
- Levi
- Scripture References
- 2 references
- Known Names
- 1 name
- Relationships
- 1 connection
Biography
Elkanah is a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a Kohathite. He is noted as the son of Joel and the father of Amasai and Ahimoth, situating him within a Levitical lineage important for priestly service. His role as a patriarch in this tribe highlights his place in the genealogical records of Israel.
Names & Titles
The name Elkanah means 'G-d [El] has possessed,' reflecting a theologically rich meaning that emphasizes God's sovereign ownership and provision. This proper name is recorded in 1 Chronicles 6:25 and is not indicated as being given directly by God.
Family
Scripture records Elkanah as the son of Joel and the father of Amasai and Ahimoth. Additionally, he is explicitly identified as the father of Mahath in 1 Chronicles 6:35. Beyond these relationships, no further family connections are detailed in the provided information.
Significance
Elkanah's significance in the biblical narrative lies in his place within the Levitical priestly line, as a Kohathite and descendant of Joel. His role as a father to key descendants like Amasai, Ahimoth, and Mahath anchors him within the continuity of the Levitical service to God. This genealogical record underscores the faithfulness of God's covenant people through successive generations of Levites.
Names & Labels (1)
- Hebrew
- אֶלְקָנָה
- Transliteration
- eləqanah
- Meaning
- G-d [El] has possessed
- Greek
- Ελκανα
- Reference
- 1CH 6:25
- Strong's
- H511
Family & Relationships (1)
son
Notes
Kohathite
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Elkanah in the Bible?
Elkanah is a male member of the tribe of Levi, specifically identified as a Kohathite. He is noted as the son of Joel and the father of Amasai and Ahimoth, situating him within a Levitical lineage important for priestly service. His role as a patriarch in this tribe highlights his place in the genealogical records of Israel.
What does the name Elkanah mean?
The name Elkanah means “God the zealous; the zeal of God” according to Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary.